Healthcare + engineering: Siblings with different career paths both choose Weber State
OGDEN, Utah — Siblings Nico and Lillian Woolsey chose Weber State University after moving to Utah from their hometown of Rock Springs, Wyoming, but each chose very different educational and career paths.
Lillian is studying emergency healthcare to become a paramedic. She made that decision while riding in the back of an ambulance after breaking her back in a sledding accident in 2022.
“I remember that moment, I was actually talking to the paramedic about his job and what school he went to,” she said. After recovery from spinal fusion surgery, Lillian decided to come to WSU in fall 2023, following in her brother’s footsteps.
“Caring for people is on my mind a lot, and something I really want to do. My classes confirm that every day,” Lillian said. Now in her third semester, she’s learning more about the things she experienced as a patient, like implementing spinal boards.
Although she’s only three hours west of her hometown, Lillian loves her new home: “I’m happy every day in Utah,” she said, noting her love for hiking and traveling. After Weber, she may consider medical school.
Lillian’s older brother, Nico, came to WSU one year ahead of her after transferring from the University of Wyoming in Laramie, where he was on the cheer team. Now he’s majoring in mechanical engineering.
“I’ve always been a STEM-oriented person,” Nico said. “I love learning through exploring the natural world.”
At Weber State, Nico said he’s learning more about “how the universe interacts with itself. You learn these concepts and see their applications, and it opens doors to understanding things around you in everyday life.”
He said he appreciates the academic resources WSU offers to help students, especially the experienced faculty. He gave a shout-out to mathematics professor Timothy Steele for making Calculus II “the most fun math class” he’s ever taken.
Nico tackles 12–14 credits each semester and is focused on getting good grades while also working part time as a chef. But he also makes time to meet Lillian for lunch on campus twice a week.
“I love being at Weber State, and it’s nice to have one of my best friends here with me,” he said.
The sibling duo anticipates graduating together in 2027.
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu- Contact:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu